The Great Village Green Crusade

The Great Village Green Crusade is a 2017 British comedy film that cleverly combines humor, commentary on social issues, and a touch of drama. Directed by Dominic B. White, it stars popular British actor Robert Llewellyn of "Red Dwarf" fame, along with Maria McErlane and Judy Pascoe, who both deliver compelling performances.

The movie revolves around the story of Blake Richardson, played by Robert Llewellyn, whose character is nothing short of a misfit in society. He is a moderately successful author of science fiction, with a peculiar outlook on life that has led him to lead a tranquil existence in idyllic English countryside, far removed from the chaotic pace and digital saturation of modern life. However, behind his seemingly quiet life, Richardson harbors a burning ambition - to create a form of low-impact living that does not compromise the beauty of his beloved countryside. The movie deftly presents a critique of our increasingly consumerist society and offers a nuanced view of the struggle between the need for progress and the desire to preserve nature.

Maria McErlane plays the part of Molly, a good-natured yet tenacious city council officer, and Judy Pascoe is Vivien, an eco-warrior with a strong sense of humor who decides to tag along with Blake in his extraordinary quest. Together, the trio embarks on a journey that challenges their views on life, innovation, and human connections. Molly provides bureaucratic hurdles and realistic perspectives that contrast sharply with Blake's eccentric ideas. Meanwhile, Vivien's zeal fuels Blake's own determination to realize his neo-green dream into reality.

The Great Village Green Crusade is imbued with a vibrant set of peripheral characters - townsfolk caught up in the chaos of Blake's crusade, city council colleagues mingling with Molly's dilemma, green enthusiasts, skeptics, and everyone in between. These characters help to build the rich fabric of the movie's storytelling. They provide the audience laughter, insights, and moments of poignant reflection, as they intertwine their stories with the main plotline.

One of the cornerstones of this movie is its clever writing, which effectively balances comedy and social commentary. The screenplay ensures each funny moment is laced with thought-provoking issues regarding the environment and our role within it. Subtle jokes and humorous sequences are cleverly worked into the narrative, leading to comedic moments that are not merely laugh-inducing but stimulating.

The Great Village Green Crusade, however, is not all about comedy. The film also explores the human element of its characters. It delves into their dilemmas and idiosyncrasies, exploring their beliefs, relationships, and personal struggles. This adds depth to what could have otherwise been a one-dimensional comedy, giving the film an emotional resonance that stays with the viewer long after they have finished watching.

The film enjoys a visually pleasing aesthetic that adds significant charm to the narrative. Shot in some stunning locations around the English countryside, the film offers a serene backdrop to all its chaos and hilarity, fostering a sense of calm within the viewer and successfully aligning with Blake's green ideals.

Robert Llewellyn as Blake Richardson creates a compelling character, using his sharp comic timing and empathetic acting to portray a man who is as inspiring as he is amusingly eccentric. Equally compelling are Maria McErlane and Judy Pascoe, who imbue their characters with life and depth, making them not just the perfect foils for Llewellyn's character but also characters who hold their own.

Overall, The Great Village Green Crusade is a delightful film that's entertaining yet thought-provoking. It takes a humorous platform to explore serious and relevant issues, and it accomplishes this majorly due to its excellent writing, well-crafted characters, and compelling performances. It is as much a heartwarming comedy, as it is a contemplative reflection on environmental issues and the rural life. A must-watch for those who appreciate comedies with a strong message delivered in an engaging way.